Hampshire has had another exciting year in 2026, with an array of large-scale events and festivals taking place but the year is not over yet. Home to a host of family fun events, and special anniversaries, you're sure to find plenty of exciting events to give you a reason to include Hampshire in your holiday plans. Look out for an array of events commemorating the 250th anniversary of Jane Austens birth whilst you discover the place she was born, lived and wrote six of her novels #JaneAusten250.
To find out what's on in Hampshire today or this weekend, explore our featured list below or use the 'what's on search box' above to narrow down your required date. Families on a budget can look out for the many free events (F) taking place, you'll also find plenty of fun activities for kids to do whether it's during the holidays or on a weekend break.
If you're travelling from outside the area for an event in Hampshire, there are numerous hotels and other accommodation options to suit your needs.
>>> Search & Book Hampshire Accommodation
The guide below shows our calendar of events in Hampshire. Whether you're looking for What's on this weekend or further ahead, whether you're local or visiting the area for the first time, find what's happening near you by clicking the 'Map View' button. Some of the events below are on the Isle of Wight, as it's easy to hop over on the hovercraft or ferry from Portsmouth or Lymington to the island.
Grab your calendar and start planning your next visit to Hampshire, here our top picks for events happening in the county. The guide below shows our calendar of events in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
Number of results: 151
, currently showing 1 to 20.
General event
Southampton
Steam down Southampton Water to the Solent, passing cruise ships in berth, and on your return see the cruise ships Arvia, Liberty of the Seas. Mein Schiff II and Norwegian Star depart – always the chance to sound our whistle and play the ‘Shieldhall…
Run / Rally
New Forest
We are delighted to announce the return of Simply Japanese on Sunday 19 July 2026.
Set in the parkland of the National Motor Museum, the rally is open to all ages and models of Japanese cars and motorcycles and is always a highlight of the events…
General event
Southampton
The Palmerston Forts built around Britain in the second half of the 19th century represent the country’s largest ever defensive building program in peacetime. Ranging from small gun positions and bunkers to huge walled forts several acres in size,…
Cycling
Islandwide
The Isle of Wight Randonnee is a non-competitive cycle ride established by the Wayfarers in 1985.
Arts
Basingstoke
Join us for a creative and hands-on weaving experience at Whitchurch Silk Mill! In this fun workshop, you'll learn the basics of weaving and design your very own colourful wall hanging to take home.
Using beautiful yarns and threads, you'll explore…
Carnival
Newport
Newport Illuminated Carnival on the Isle of Wight Join in the carnival fun with Newport's Illuminated procession!
Carnival route To view the carnival route map, please visit the carnival website.
Food
Oakley, Basingstoke
This Mother's Day, you can sit back and relax at Oakley Hall letting our family take care of yours. Whether you're looking to enjoy a sumptuous Afternoon Tea or wanting a delicious three course meal, there's something for all to enjoy this March!
Museums
Portsmouth
Celebrate the 214th anniversary of the birth of Charles Dickens at his first home, here in Portsmouth.
Festival
Newport
The award winning Isle of Wight Festival is steeped in history and famed for mixing iconic legendary artists with the hottest up and coming acts.
Performing Arts
New Forest
This Is My Theatre presents Alice's Adventure in Wonderland on Wednesday 12 August 2026.
Step through the looking glass and into a world where nothing is quite as it seems… Perfect for dreamers of all ages, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland invites…
Festival
Porchfield
Three Rivers Festival returns to Durrants Farm, Porchfield, from 29–31 May 2026, with its first wave of artists now confirmed. This year's early announcement features Dub Pistols, Jaguar Skills, The Undercover Hippy, Born ina Barn, Fellowship of…
Sporting Event
Southampton
Join us for the 11th Anniversary of the ABP Southampton Marathon, Half, 10K, 5K and Fun Run! Taking place on Sunday 3rd May 2026 - run with friends, with your club or for a charity. The route takes you round parks, seas and city. Sign up now and…
Run / Rally
New Forest
We are delighted to announce the return of Swedish Takeover on Saturday 4 July 2026.
Volvo Surrey, Sussex and Hampshire invite all Swedish vehicle owners and enthusiasts to join them for their annual Swedish Takeover at Beaulieu.
Tour
Fareham
This massive Victorian fort still holds many secrets, come and explore its hidden depths with our expert guides and take the opportunity to see Fort Nelson from a different angle.
Festival
Winchester
Winchester is a city steeped in history and with strong literary connections.
General event
Southampton
Spend a leisurely day on the Solent, enjoying the spectacle of the Round the Island Yacht Race from the great viewing platform of the Shieldhall! The race regularly attracts over 1,700 boats and around 16,000 sailors, making it one of the largest…
Mother's Day
Whitchurch
Indulge in an unforgettable Afternoon Tea Experience at Bombay Sapphire Distillery this Mother’s Day.
Exhibitions
Fareham
Step into wedding planning bliss at voco Fareham-Solent and immerse yourself in all things weddings. We can't wait to welcome you!
Step into wedding planning bliss — we have recently undergone a breath taking refurbishment! Whether you're newly…
Run / Rally
New Forest
We are delighted to announce the return of Simply VW on Sunday 24 May 2026.
All VW owners were invited to park up in the National Motor Museum grounds for a superb day for both enthusiasts and owners. All ages and models of VW are welcome, which…
Childrens Events
Romsey
Self-guided fun with all the family.
Spring is waking up the garden — and it's time to go exploring! Whether it's sunny, rainy, or somewhere in between, wrap up warm and head outside to see what you can find.
Children must be accompanied by an…